Adderall Addiction & Risks

Adderall is a medication that is often prescribed for treating attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and narcolepsy. Nervous system stimulants, like Adderall, have a high potential for misuse due to the way they increase alertness, wakefulness, focus, and energy. An individual may form a dependence on Adderall in order to experience these stimulant effects.

Adderall is a Schedule II drug, meaning that it has medicinal purposes, but also a high potential for misuse and physical dependency. Long-term non-medical use of the drug can lead to addiction and substance use disorder. 

Dangers of Adderall Addiction

There is an alarming increase in the non-medical use of prescription drugs among young adults. College students are known to dabble in illicit drugs. However, long-term use could lead to physical and psychological dependence on the drug. The misuse of prescription stimulants without appropriate medical supervision could have devastating repercussions on college campuses or during parties where larger doses are misused. Data from the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) shows that at least 16 million Americans, on average, had engaged in the misuse of prescription stimulants. Depending on how often, how much, and by what method a person consumes, Adderall use disorder can develop as quickly as one week after the first exposure.

The physical dependence on Adderall can cause a range of harmful side effects and co-occurring medical conditions. In fact, addiction to any substance can cause physical and psychological changes in the body. As well as cause behavioral changes. From impulsive behavior in order to attain the drug to aggressive behaviors during withdrawal, dealing with addiction and its long-term side effects takes a toll on not just the person whose battling addiction but also their loved ones.

SIDE EFFECTS OF MISUSING ADDERALL

When Adderall is misused, it can cause a number of undesired effects. The most common side effects include: 

• Sleep disorders
• Anxiety
• Shortness of breath
• Headache
• Loss of appetite
• Mood swings
• Sexual dysfunction

Chronic or extreme use of Adderall can lead to physical dependence and cause more serious problems, such as:

• Breathing trouble
• Cold sweats
• Rapid or irregular heartbeat
• Fever
• Blurred vision
• Hallucinations

Suddenly stopping Adderall after prolonged misuse can cause withdrawal symptoms such as:

• Depression
• Nausea and vomiting
• Muscle cramps and pain
• Trembling
• Nightmares
• Suicidal thoughts

For this reason, people should seek medical help and guidance if they are struggling with Adderall misuse. Heavily misusing Adderall can have adverse effects and pose serious health risks. In high doses, Adderall can cause overdose and severe liver damage. Misuse of any prescription medication leads to toxic levels of the drug in the body. Stimulant drugs increase heart rate, blood pressure, and body temperature, and an overdose may cause cardiac arrest, coma, psychosis, rapid heart rate, sweating, and unusual mood swings. An overdose may be life-threatening, and if you suspect someone has overdosed on Adderall, seek immediate medical help.

TREATING ADDERALL MISUSE

Adderall addiction is typically treated with a combination of detoxification, behavioral therapies, medications, and support groups. Treatment begins with medically assisted detoxification, which involves weaning a person off of the substance they are dependent on and overcoming withdrawal symptoms comfortably and safely. Followed by behavioral therapies and support groups in an inpatient or outpatient setting.

At Futures Recovery Healthcare, we are dedicated to helping you or your loved one discover the best treatment options. Evidence-based treatment plans utilize scientific methods and research in a multidisciplinary approach. Compassionate staff members and mental health professionals work as a team to design specialized, individualized care plans. We believe in the importance of teaching coping mechanisms and life skills to help you or your loved one achieve a healthy physical and emotional balance. Call us today to learn about our treatment programs.